The fundamental characteristic of the Nanterre terraces (apart from their relief) is their dissymmetrical aspect. The seventeen parterres that form this remarkable “urban landscape unit” all have different borders with existing and planned buildings. We have created three large gaps that punctuate the volumes of the housing.
Our urban approach is to portray a contrasting perspective.
The block of flats on terrace 10 is therefore made up of four mildly slanted white volumes that stand out on the skyline. Along the Provinces Françaises side, the volumes are slightly set back with gentle angles that accompany the linearity of the unusual promenade.
On the terrace side, the rhythmical, carved volumes all present a perfectly identical façade. Their slanted forms give them different widths, creating a tension in the perspective that subtly sets off the building, located opposite Wogenscky’s “monumental” departmental administrative centre.
Between these four tall volumes we have placed three lower volumes that break up the linear effect and punctuate the promenade with corner loggias and hanging gardens.
Thanks to these varied angles the flats face in multiple directions and offer deep terraces that look out onto privileged views.
The flats we have created therefore all face in at least two directions (corner or walk-through). All have outdoor spaces and are well lit with natural light.
The hanging gardens are located 18m above the public space. They face north and south and benefit from copious sunlight throughout the day. The greenery is lush; part of these gardens is inaccessible so as to constitute reservoirs of biodiversity that will benefit the planted garden terraces.
The project’s special volumetry meets the restrictions of urban constraints, but above all provides a high quality of life inside each apartment.